Investigation Designs

Question 1

What are the 4 Types of Investigation Designs?

Answer 1

1. Experimental Design: quantitative research
2. Observational Design: quantitative OR qualitative research
3. Delphi Technique: quantitative, qualitive or both
4. Focus Groups: qualitive research

Question 2

What is an Experimental Design and what are its advantages and disadvantages?

Answer 2

An independent variable is manipulated to see the effect on the dependent variable (IV vs DV)
Advantages - high level of control, specific conclusions, allows for cause and effect
Disadvantages - Results are highly subjective due to possible human error, not realistic, may be ethical

Question 3

What is an Observational Design and what are its advantages and disadvantages?

Answer 3

Something is observed within a pre-existing group; often conducted in a naturalistic setting.
Advantages - direct observation in a natural setting, allows for ethical study, useful for generating new ideas
Disadvantages - small sample, less reliable as uncontrolled variables, no cause & effect, researcher must be trained in observation

Question 4

What is the Delphi Technique and what are its advantages and disadvantages?

Answer 4

surveys sent to a group of experts to obtain their opinions.
Advantages - allows for a number of experts, convenient, cheap
Disadvantages - can be time consuming

Question 5

What are Focus Groups and what are its advantages and disadvantages?

Answer 5

method of gathering data using open-ended questions, asked within a group setting.
Advantages - meaningful qualitative data, gathers information about attitudes & experiences
Disadvantages - communication difficulties, facilitators may cause personal bias, confidentiality not possible